Luanda Travel Guide
Luanda, Angola's capital, is a lively and complex city where glass towers and luxury cars stand in sharp contrast to the sprawling shantytowns that continue to grow around the edges. It's the country's main port and administrative centre, and its airport is surprisingly well connected, with direct flights to several major international cities.
Although Luanda's tourist infrastructure is still limited, the city offers plenty for those willing to explore. Founded by the Portuguese in 1575, it played a major role in the Atlantic slave trade. Many enslaved people passed through the Fortaleza de São Miguel, a hilltop fortress built a year later, which still overlooks the old city. Nearby, the National Museum of Slavery holds haunting artefacts and images from that dark period.
Beyond its heavy history, Luanda also has good restaurants, lively markets such as Benfica, and beach escapes such as Mussulo Island, just a short boat ride from the harbour.